The aim of this study was contributing to the understanding of the phenomena that involves the Repetitive Straisn Injury (RSI) and its relation with the work arena. It was carried out through the reflection on the multiplicity of factors and emphasis on the psychosocial dimension based on the statements of people affected by RSI. The qualitative method was used and the case study tool was chosen based on the characteristics of the research clerks on leave for RSI diagnosis were interviwed. Individual semi strutured interwiews were carried out on previously scheduled occasions - each one lasting around two hours. The interviewees showed discredit in their sickness; dissatisfaction and revolt for no longer being able todo important things in their personal lives; difficulty in showing the illness and making people believe in it, lack of recognitions for work done; identity loss, anxiety before the unknown, heightened stress and strain and also limitations posed by the illness. In conclusion, it coult be observed that there was interference with the work organitation and work relations on getting sick, physical and mental suffering preceding the illness; ubiquity of pain and phisycal and mental limitations which make life projects impossible; difficulties in the diagnosis and treatment and finally endangerment of their personal and family life.
repetitive strain injury; psychosocial aspects; bank work